How does this castle have no more reviews? This place is absolutely magical. So many people I know…read morevisited Barcelona and they think they know how Spain looks like. For those I would like to point out that Spain is much much more!! Just a short ride from Valencia, situated on a hills above town of Xativa, Xativa Castle predates Roman times. It was believed that in this castle (really a fortress) legendary Hannibal was preparing for the siege of the Roman city Saguntum. So much history here. This fortress has seen it all.. Hannibal, Moors, Spanish war, was used as a prison!! There is a designated parking lot up the hill on the left and it takes just a short 10 min hike uphill from there. We visited at sunset, the colors and shades were spectacular, also visiting in July, mid day visits could be pretty hot since there is little to no shade. There is a restaurant on the top before you hit the toll booth, it was open but we didn't stop by.

Alright, way too much history to discuss in a Yelp review, but let me just say that if you're ever…read morein the region, you have to do the hike up to this incredible castle. Centuries upon centuries of history. From the Almoravid dynasty to the Aragons, you'll be amazed. Just do yourself a favor and hike up to the castle. Yes, there is a shuttle, but getting there is half of the fun! And there's a bar/restaurant on the way up. ¡Salud!

This is an essential visit when stopping by the beach town of Peniscola. Its a fortress built by…read morethe Knights Templar for the pope back in the day. The views from the top are simply breath-taking! Its just strange to have a medieval castle surrounded by palm trees and a beach! It costs about $3€ to climb to the top but its worth it. The other interesting tidbit is that there are lots of residential units, shops, and restaurants that line the windy roads leading up to the fortress. You can take one path up, and a different path down and see a whole different set of shops. The food look really good here but unfortunately they don't open until 12pm or 1pm, so if you're on a tight tour schedule like we are you have better luck near the beach and port.

Beautiful place, gorgeous views and excellent ambiance. The castle has been carefully renovated,…read moreand it has a very interesting history. Can't miss it!